"I'm So Happy!" - Neymar Celebrates His Comeback at Al-Hilal, Eyes 2026 World Cup

Neymar has expressed immense joy after making his much-anticipated return to football with Al-Hilal, calling it "the greatest comeback in football." The Brazilian superstar had been sidelined for over a year due to a serious knee ligament injury but made his return in an AFC Champions League match against Al-Ain, coming on as a substitute for the final 13 minutes of the thrilling 5-4 victory.

Neymar's Road to Recovery
Neymar's comeback has been emotional and arduous. The 32-year-old admitted to moments of frustration and tears during his recovery process. Speaking after the game, he shared his happiness, saying, "I feel good... I always have a good team. I'm so happy. I'm back! I'm back!" His brief but impactful return has sparked excitement among fans not only in the Middle East and Brazil but around the world.

The Bigger Picture
Neymar's return marks a significant moment for football. Before his injury, he had played only five games for Al-Hilal, and his long-awaited return has been compared to another legendary Brazilian, Ronaldo (R9), who also overcame significant injuries. Former Uruguay defender Diego Lugano told ESPN that Neymar's comeback could be one of the greatest in football history, stating, "If he can return to being 70 or 80% of what he was, it will be the greatest comeback in football, even compared to Ronaldo's."

Neymar's Future Ambitions
Despite concerns about his ability to return to his previous form, Neymar remains focused on playing for Brazil in the 2026 World Cup. With 128 caps and 79 goals for his national team, he is seen as a key player in Brazil’s quest for global glory. His contract with Al-Hilal runs until 2025, with the possibility of an extension as he looks to build momentum in the lead-up to the tournament.

Neymar's return is not only a personal victory but also a boost for global football, with fans hoping to see him back to his best in the coming years.